Cosmetic Surgery Proposals Aim To Improve Patient Safety

In light of the recent PIP implant scandal, the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS) has proposed a six-point plan designed to tackle the UK's lax attitude towards plastic surgery.

At the moment, there are very few regulations controlling our cosmetic surgery industry. BAAPS believes this has allowed a “cowboy” market to flourish, trivialising surgery and jeopardising patient safety.

It has recently been announced that MPs will carry out an enquiry into the apparent lack of restrictions. Speaking of the news, Fazel Fatah, the president of BAAPS, said: “Despite the unfortunate scandal which has brought this issue onto the agenda, it is an absolute joy for us at the BAAPS to hear that this year, the Government will be examining the lax regulations in our sector.

“We understand MPs will review areas such as psychological counselling for cosmetic surgery patients and the unscrupulous marketing activities of many firms which take advantage of the young and the vulnerable.”

He urged the Commons select committee to consider the “simple six point plan” put forward by BAAPS, saying it would “help safeguard the public” against problems that have been evident “for many years”.

What do the proposals include?

Former BAAPS president Nigel Mercer has helped form the draft proposals which, he said, “are designed to improve aesthetic surgery and medical services to enhance patient safety and promote consistently high standards for providers across Europe.”

The proposals consist of a six-point plan that would permit a much tighter control over the UK's cosmetic surgery industry. These proposals can be summarised as follows:-

1. Ban all advertising of cosmetic surgery;

2. Establish an implant register for all types of silicone implant;

3. Re-classify dermal fillers as a medicine;

4. Compulsory registration of practitioners in aesthetic medicine and lasers. (At the moment this is voluntary);

5. Mandatory Safety Audit, whereby ALL aesthetic plastic surgeons are audited on an annual basis;

6. Revalidation and mystery shopping in CE marking.

Have you been injured by Plastic Surgery?

While BAAPS has announced it is “delighted” the Government is to consider their proposals, it may be some time before we see any change in the law. In the meantime, patients will remain at risk of under qualified and under skilled surgeons.

If you have been one the unfortunate people to suffer at the hands of a sub-standard plastic surgeon, you will understandably be feeling angry and upset; it is likely you will have spent a large amount of money, only to sustain a physical (and potentially even psychological) injury.

If this has happened to you, do not delay in seeking the advice of a legal expert. A medical negligence solicitor is the best person to speak with, as they will have the knowledge and expertise to suggest what action you are able to take. This may involve making a medical negligence claim which, if successful, will enable you to claim the compensation you so rightfully deserve.

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